The 10,100-seat Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, home to the Double-A Suns, was in the limelight from day one. The first project finished under the Better Jacksonville Plan, a $2.2-billion building program, the stadium fulfills the goal of luring fans and family downtown for entertainment.

The inspiration is Camden Yards, Baltimore, with its old-time feel and contemporary amenities. It is no coincidence that HOK S+V+E and Barton Malow worked together on both engagements – the City of Jacksonville, our client, sought an architect and builder team. (Gilbane/Scheer/Renaissance was program manager.)

Its atmosphere, features, and overall quality are equal to anything in the majors: great sightlines; indoor practice and training facilities; the largest stadium canopy in the minors, protecting fans from heat and rain; the uninterrupted walkway that provides a panorama of historic architecture, city skyline, and bridges over the St. Johns River.

Despite delayed ground-breaking, the stadium was ready for opening day. Innovative techniques, such as a precast soffit and joist framing system to support the main concourse, were key to meeting the schedule.